Thermostat and gasket for pcm 454

[92SupraComp]

Why not buy a sheet of gasket and make a gasket? I did for my comp summer. Bought a new 160* to replace the tired 143* that was stuck at one spot pretty much. Had some gasket material sitting around and make one in just a minute...

[Ptownkid]

Is 180 too hot?

[TitanTn]

I believe that it is too hot for a PCM 454.

[wotan2525]

I believe that it is too hot for a PCM 454.

I don't think so. I run a 180 in mine. The only difference is that you don't have much margin for error.... with a 140 you can tell right away if the temp starts going up. On mine, if it gets up past 190 I know I have a problem but the window is a lot shorter to shut it down.

[devovino]

I don't think so. I run a 180 in mine. The only difference is that you don't have much margin for error.... with a 140 you can tell right away if the temp starts going up. On mine, if it gets up past 190 I know I have a problem but the window is a lot shorter to shut it down.

I agree, I run a 140 and has been doing great. With a higher temp (180) there would be little room for error. I also bought mine from the Auto Parts store, and I have the same housing that they shower earlier:

[Ptownkid]

Maybe I'll check somewhere else and go down to 170.

[Stal1026]

SIERRA MARINE-ONLINE-get the part number and go to the local NAPA store. Give them the part number and they can get it for you. Easiest way to order parts and then return if needed.

[TitanTn]

I don't think so. I run a 180 in mine. The only difference is that you don't have much margin for error.... with a 140 you can tell right away if the temp starts going up. On mine, if it gets up past 190 I know I have a problem but the window is a lot shorter to shut it down.

Good points. I should have said "I wouldn't run anything hotter..." I like having the margin where I'll know something isn't right before it gets even close to being damaging hot. Plus, it runs more efficiently at a cooler temp.

[Ptownkid]

I have always been told that they run more efficiently hotter...

[TitanTn]

I have always been told that they run more efficiently hotter...

They run better with some heat versus running them cold (no thermostat), but heat past a certain point does not help combustion. As long as you're within the temp range of that specific engine, you'll make more power on the cooler side.